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Visiting Tokyo Skytree: All You Need to Know About Japan's Tallest Tower (Tickets, Access & More)

Visiting Tokyo Skytree: All You Need to Know About Japan's Tallest Tower (Tickets, Access & More)

Last updated: 25 May 2026

Since its inauguration in 2012, the Tokyo Skytree has become a defining feature of Tokyo's skyline. More than just an opportunity to admire the breathtaking views from its observation deck, the iconic tower offers a variety of enjoyable activities. Let's take a closer look at the Tokyo Skytree tower and its many unique things to experience and discover!

Table of Contents
  1. 1. Getting to Tokyo Skytree (Access)
  2. 2. Prices & How to Buy Tokyo Skytree Tickets
  3. 3. Tokyo Skytree Hours
  4. 4. Special 2026 Limited-Time Events
  5. 5. About Tokyo Skytree: Uniting Radio Tower, Shopping Center, and Observation Deck
  6. 6. What Can You See from the Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck?
  7. 7. Tokyo Skytree Restaurants: Enjoy a Meal at Sky Restaurant 634
  8. 8. Recommended Souvenirs
  9. 9. Tokyo Skytree: The “Modern” to Asakusa’s “Traditional”
  10. FAQ

1. Getting to Tokyo Skytree (Access)

1. Getting to Tokyo Skytree (Access)

Getting to Tokyo Skytree is easy. The tower is accessible via Tokyo Skytree Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line, and also through Oshiage Station, which connects the Asakusa Subway Line, Hanzomon Subway Line, and Keisei Oshiage Line. If you prefer a scenic route, it's a 20-minute walk across the Sumida River from Asakusa.

You'll find the entrance to Tokyo Skytree on the 4th floor of the Tokyo Skytree Town shopping center. Ticket sales and pickup for the Skytree are located at the west entrance of the same floor.

2. Prices & How to Buy Tokyo Skytree Tickets

Securing tickets to the Observation Deck at Tokyo Skytree is the first step toward an unforgettable experience. Although same-day tickets are available, booking ahead will both secure your spot and avoid some of the waiting involved. Tickets sold via the official website are available for specific times, which can help if you have already decided on your itinerary.

After obtaining your ticket, you'll take an elevator that zooms directly to the 350th floor. Here, the Observation Deck offers a breathtaking panorama of Tokyo. The moment the elevator doors open, the expansive cityscape unfolds before you in spectacular fashion.

Here's a fun detail: each elevator to the Observation Deck features a unique theme, providing an entertaining and brief journey. Enjoy the captivating designs as you ascend!

*Note for visitors: There is a 50% discount for people with disabilities. Children aged three and under enter for free.

Tips for Visitors
  • Save Money: While same-day tickets are sold at the 4th-floor ticket counter or vending machines, a 500-yen service fee per ticket is added. Book online in advance to save!
  • Children: Admission is completely free for young children aged 5 and under.
  • Discounts: A 50% discount is available to visitors with disabilities.
Tokyo Skytree Combo Ticket (Floor 350 + 450)
What it is:
Experience both observation levels in a single visit.
Prices
・Adults (Ages 15+): From 3,000 yen
・Children (Ages 6–14): From 1,500 yen
Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck (Floor 350)
What it is:
Take in panoramic views of Tokyo from the main deck.
Prices
・Adults (Ages 15+): From 1,800 yen
・Children (Ages 6–14): From 900 yen

Other popular attractions in Tokyo

3. Tokyo Skytree Hours

Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria:
Generally open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (last admission at 9:00 PM).

Important Note: Hours fluctuate based on the season. On certain weekends and holidays, the tower opens an hour early at 9:00 AM. Always check the official calendar before your visit!

Tokyo Solamachi:
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Restaurant floor: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM. Opening hours differ for some stores).

4. Special 2026 Limited-Time Events

If you are visiting in mid-to-late 2026, Tokyo Skytree is hosting several unique collaborations and events that you can bundle with your tickets!

  • TOKYO Matcha Time at SKYTREE: Running until July 6, 2026, you can purchase special event tickets that bundle your Tembo Deck admission with exclusive matcha drinks or sweets crafted in collaboration with Gion Tsujiri.
  • BLUE LOCK EPISODE SKY: Running until July 6, 2026.
  • Chiikawa☆Starry SKYTREE and the Secret Island: A fun collaboration starting on July 10, 2026, and running through Halloween (October 31, 2026). See details here.

5. About Tokyo Skytree: Uniting Radio Tower, Shopping Center, and Observation Deck

5. About Tokyo Skytree: Uniting Radio Tower, Shopping Center, and Observation Deck

Tokyo Skytree is widely recognized for its stunning observation decks, yet its primary role is as Tokyo's principal radio tower. It plays a crucial role in delivering stable radio waves across the Kanto region, serving numerous TV and radio stations in Tokyo. Thanks to its impressive height, Tokyo Skytree also serves a meteorological purpose, equipped with facilities for cloud and lightning observation.

How Did The Tower Get Its Name?

The name of Tokyo Skytree came from the image of a massive tree that points towards the skies. It was decided by the public in 2008, alongside other prominent suggestions, including Rising Tower, DreamTower, and Edo Tower. One reason for the name of Skytree prevailing is the warm and hopeful image that it evokes.

Who Designed It?

It was designed by sculptor Mr. Kiichi Sumikawa, inspired by the curve of a Japanese sword and the rise of the pillars typically found at shrines and temples.

What Do the Changing Colors and Nightly Light-Up Mean?

Generally speaking, the Tokyo Skytree tower's blue lights represent the chic and trendsetting spirit of Edo, and the royal purple hints at Edo's elegance and grace. At the same time, the orange colors evoke the image of a special flag called "nobori."

These are the three primary color patterns, but during special periods such as Christmas and cherry blossom season, Tokyo Skytree also tends to shine in entirely different colors.

You can check the lighting schedule at the official website here.

Why is it so Tall?

Why is it so Tall?

With a whopping height of 634 meters, Tokyo Skytree was recognized as the world's tallest tower by Guinness World Records on November 11, 2011. It took over the function of Tokyo's central radio tower, a position formerly held by Tokyo Tower since 1958.

However, much has changed in the last 50 years, and numerous buildings started to outshine Tokyo Tower in terms of height, harming its performance. Thus, a new radio tower needed to be built.

6. What Can You See from the Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck?

6. What Can You See from the Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck?

Tembo Deck has a height of 350 meters, and the Tembo Galleria is at 450 meters. Depending on the weather, you can see as far as 75 kilometers from the Tembo Galleria and view the magnificent Mt. Fuji.

Also, we recommend gazing at the view of the Tokyo streets, dyed red in the evening, as well as the shimmering night view.

The Tembo Galleria at 450 Meters

The Tembo Galleria at 450 Meters

Tokyo Skytree's Tembo Galleria is a glass corridor and offers a view that is even more magnificent than the one on floor 350. It's one of Tokyo's most popular sightseeing spots and really lets you take in the mega-metropolis of Tokyo to the fullest. Shaped like a sloped spiral, the Tembo Galleria will make you feel like you're walking on air!

The View from Tembo Gallery

As the Tembo Galleria is 100 meters higher than the Observation Deck, you can see even further into the distance. It's an excellent photo spot that makes for great memories, so take your time and enjoy the stroll.

Please note that to go to Tembo Skydeck, you'll ride an elevator to Floor 445, where another elevator will take you up to Floor 450. To go back, you'll be taken to Floor 345, where you can return to Floor 350. (Separate admission may be required.)

To the Highest Point: SORAKARA POINT

To the Highest Point: SORAKARA POINT

The highest accessible part of Tokyo Skytree tower is called Sorakara Point at 451.2 meters. It acts as a kind of stage that creates an enigmatic, wonderful atmosphere just with glass and light.

Looking Down: the Glass Floor at 340F!

To return to the ground, you’ll have to go to floor 345 where you’ll be taken down again. But before that, make sure to take another elevator to go to floor 340 – a real thrill awaits here! Look all the way to the ground through the glass floor to realize just how high up in the air you are!

7. Tokyo Skytree Restaurants: Enjoy a Meal at Sky Restaurant 634

7. Tokyo Skytree Restaurants: Enjoy a Meal at Sky Restaurant 634

If the height doesn’t make you queasy, why not enjoy a meal high up in the air? Sky Restaurant 634 can be found on the Tembo Deck’s floor 345. Savor creative cuisine that merges Edo's traditional tastes with contemporary French cuisine.

8. Recommended Souvenirs

8. Recommended Souvenirs

Monaka
Head to the Tokyo Skytree Official Shop on floor 1 or 345 for "monaka," a traditional Japanese sweet made up of thin wafers filled with sweet red bean paste.

Long Roll
The Tokyo Skytree Long Roll has a package length of exactly 63.4cm (one-thousandth of the actual Skytree tower!). The soft, flavorful cake even comes with a plastic fork and knife shaped like the tree.

9. Tokyo Skytree: The “Modern” to Asakusa’s “Traditional”

Tokyo Skytree is located in Oshiage, a neighborhood adjacent to the wonderfully traditional Asakusa and its Sensoji Temple. Just one station or a scenic walk away, it is a great sightseeing spot especially after exploring Asakusa. Japan is known for its unique fusion between modern and old, and nowhere is this so famously represented as at Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree.

FAQ

Is Tokyo Skytree worth the price, or should I go to Tokyo Tower/Shibuya Sky?

That depends on what kind of view you want. Tokyo has several excellent observation spots, including Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Sky, and the free observatory at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

However, Tokyo Skytree offers the highest observation point in Japan and an especially wide, panoramic look over the city. Because it stands on Tokyo’s eastern side, the view feels incredibly expansive, stretching across the entire metropolitan area. By comparison, Tokyo Tower gives you a closer look at central Tokyo’s skyscrapers and landmarks.

What is the best time of day to visit Tokyo Skytree?

Tokyo Skytree Congestion Guide
Tokyo Skytree Congestion Guide

One of the best times to visit is about 45 minutes to 1 hour before sunset. This timing lets you enjoy three completely different views during a single visit: daytime cityscapes, sunset colors, and Tokyo’s famous nighttime lights.

On clear days, you may also catch a beautiful silhouette of Mount Fuji in the distance as the sun goes down.

2026 Sunset Times for Tokyo (Approximate)
  • January: Around 4:50 PM
  • February: Around 5:25 PM
  • March: Around 5:50 PM
  • April: Around 6:15 PM
  • May: Around 6:40 PM
  • June: Around 7:00 PM
  • July: Around 7:00 PM
  • August: Around 6:35 PM
  • September: Around 5:50 PM
  • October: Around 5:10 PM
  • November: Around 4:35 PM
  • December: Around 4:30 PM

Can you see Mt. Fuji from Tokyo Skytree?

Yes, it is possible to see Mt. Fuji from Tokyo Skytree on clear days. Visibility depends heavily on weather conditions, humidity, and cloud cover.

Winter mornings and crisp, dry days generally offer the best chance of seeing the mountain clearly. During hazy summer weather, visibility can be much lower.

Do I need to buy Tokyo Skytree tickets in advance?

Advance tickets are highly recommended, especially on weekends, holidays, and during busy travel seasons. Buying tickets online can save both time and money, since same-day tickets are typically more expensive.

Keep in mind that even with advance tickets, there may still be short waits for the elevators during peak times. For the lightest crowds, weekday mornings are usually the best choice.

Is the Tembo Galleria worth the extra cost?

The standard Tembo Deck already provides impressive 360-degree views from high above Tokyo, and many visitors find it more than satisfying on its own.

The higher Tembo Galleria adds a unique experience thanks to its spiraling glass walkway and slightly higher elevation. While the scenery itself is not dramatically different, visitors interested in architecture, photography, or experiencing the very top of the tower often feel the upgrade is worthwhile. Budget-conscious travelers, however, will likely be perfectly happy with just the Tembo Deck ticket.

Written by:
LIVE JAPAN Editor
LIVE JAPAN Editor

The LIVE JAPAN editorial team is a multinational group made up of native editors who have lived in Japan for over five years and Japanese editors who love to travel. Together, we share the best of Japan, offering cultural insights, historical context, event updates, and travel-friendly deals, to support your journey every step of the way.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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